Three Ways to See Peru: Which Travel Style Fits You Best?

April Peter
Mar 21
3 min read

Machu Picchu might be Peru’s most famous landmark, but it’s far from the whole story. This wildly diverse country is a patchwork of vibrant cities, ancient ruins, lush rainforests, dramatic coastlines, and sky-high peaks. The real magic? You can shape your experience based on how you like to travel.

So—what kind of traveler are you?

Whether you’re chasing cultural connections, nature immersion, or high-adrenaline adventure, there’s a version of Peru with your name on it. Let’s break it down.

1. For the Cultural Explorer

You’re here for: history, food, art, and deep cultural connection.

Wander through cobblestone streets where colonial cathedrals meet Incan foundations. Sip pisco sours in stylish bars, sample world-renowned cuisine, and take in ancient ruins that whisper stories older than empires.

Don’t miss:

Lima: Peru’s capital is a foodie’s dream and history lover’s playground.
Cusco & the Sacred Valley: Once the center of the Incan world, now a vibrant mix of heritage, markets, and living tradition.
Arequipa: A white-stone city ringed by volcanoes, home to UNESCO-listed architecture and a laid-back charm.

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 1–2: Explore Lima’s historic center and indulge in the city’s culinary scene.
Day 3–6: Fly to Cusco, acclimate and explore ruins in the Sacred Valley.
Day 7–8: Visit Machu Picchu.
Day 9–10: Head to Arequipa and Colca Canyon for a culture-meets-nature finale.

2. For the Nature Lover

You’re here for: wildlife, landscapes, and quiet moments in wild places.

Peru is an open-air playground for nature lovers, where you can float through rainforest backwaters one day and watch condors soar above massive canyons the next.

Don’t miss:

The Amazon Basin: Home to astonishing biodiversity and immersive eco-lodges.
Lake Titicaca: Still waters, floating islands, and age-old traditions.
Colca Canyon: One of the world’s deepest canyons, framed by volcanoes and home to the majestic Andean condor.

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 1–2: Land in Lima, overnight.
Day 3–6: Journey to the Amazon (via Iquitos or Puerto Maldonado) for a lodge stay.
Day 7–9: Travel to Lake Titicaca for a peaceful, high-altitude escape.
Day 10–12: Explore Colca Canyon and spot condors in flight.

3. For the Active Adventurer

You’re here for: epic hikes, wild landscapes, and stories you’ll be telling for years.

If your ideal vacation involves early mornings, high peaks, and that satisfying ache after a day of exploration, Peru’s got you covered. Think glacier-topped mountains, coastal waves, and ancient paths worn by centuries of travelers.

Don’t miss:

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): A high-altitude hike to a natural wonder with jaw-dropping color.
Trekking in the Sacred Valley: Choose from the classic Inca Trail or lesser-known routes like Lares or Salkantay.
Peru’s Pacific Coast: Surfing, paragliding, and sandboarding in places like Máncora or the dunes of Huacachina.

Suggested Itinerary:

Day 1–2: Arrive in Lima, then head to the coast for surfing or sandboarding.
Day 3–6: Travel to Cusco and tackle a multi-day trek through the Andes.
Day 7–9: Hike Rainbow Mountain and recover in the Sacred Valley.
Day 10–12: Optional extension to Machu Picchu or a canyon adventure.

So, Which Peru Is Calling You?

Every traveler sees Peru through a different lens—and that’s what makes it such an unforgettable destination. Whether you're into culture, nature, or action-packed adventure, there’s a version of Peru that’s perfectly aligned with your style.